sedimentary
Sandstone
Sedimentary Rock (Quartz Sandstone)
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on cementation; typically tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white; dull to earthy luster; clastic texture made of mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz; specific gravity of 2.2 to 2.8.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale depending on cementation; typically tan, brown, yellow, red, grey, or white; dull to earthy luster; clastic texture made of mineral particles or rock fragments, primarily quartz; specific gravity of 2.2 to 2.8.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the accumulation, compaction, and cementation of mineral particles or rock fragments, most commonly quartz and feldspar, deposited by water, wind, or ice in environments like deserts, beaches, and rivers over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Widely used in construction as a building material, paving stones, flooring tiles, and historically for grinding stones and whetstones.
Geological facts
Sandstone can absorb water and act as a natural aquifer, filtering groundwater. Many famous ancient monuments and temples worldwide, such as Petra in Jordan, are carved directly out of sandstone cliffs.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its visible grainy texture that feels like sandpaper and its characteristic layered or bedded appearance. Found globally wherever ancient sedimentary environments existed.
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Other sedimentary specimens
Sandstone or Siltstone
Arenite (if sandstone)
Sedimentary
Fossiliferous Concretion
Septarian Concretion containing Brachiopods/Crinoids
fossil
Quartz pebble
Silicon dioxide (SiO2)
sedimentary
Generic Pebble / Rock Fragment
Lithic fragment / Weathered rock
sedimentary
Sedimentary Sandstone
Arenite (Sedimentary Rock)
sedimentary
Banded Siltstone / Mudstone Pebble
Siltstone / Argillite
sedimentary